How Long Does Information Stay
On My Credit Report?

Negative Information has a lifespan of
at least seven years

With some exceptions, most negative information is purged from your credit report seven years after the last transaction in the problem account.

The good news is that, over time, most negative entries will be removed from your credit report.

The following time limits apply to different
types of information:

• As a general rule, negative data is removed from your credit report after seven years.
• Bankruptcies remain on your credit report for 10 years.
• Lawsuits or judgments you have not paid remain on your credit report until the statute of limitations runs out or for seven years, whichever is longer.
• Regardless of age, any negative information can be included in your credit report when you apply for a loan of more than $150,000, apply for a job with a salary of $75,000 or more, or apply for $150,000 or more in life insurance.